The course for this event will be approximately 8 km or 5 miles long.
Expect to finish in the time it would take to run 10 km on flat road.
The course is a combination rolling hills and varied terrain including hardpacked single track, loose gravel, rocky single track, and soft forest paths.
There will be 1 aid station on course located at the halfway point. water, sports drink and first aid will be available.
The total elevation gain is 100 m although almost all the gain takes place within a 1 km stretch of trail!
The Start is located approximately 100 meters from the trailhead. The course begins along gently rising wide double track before veering north through pioneer apple orchards and open meadow. The course then traverses up a ridge for approximately 600 m … this is a real test of climbing ability! Use caution as the trail is loose gravel. Walking is acceptable.
Once crested the ridge, there is a short reprieve of flat before entering into single track and continuing the climb to the highest point in the park. From the northern outlook, the best view of the countryside can witnessed. On a clear day, the skyline of Toronto can be seen.
The trail descends into hardwood forest and winds through gentle hills, meandering around McCarston’s Lake. As the course veers east, it passes alongside a newly formed beaver dam. The course then descends down to a spring fed pond and the on course aid station. From this point on, the course is pretty much flat for 3 k winding through forest, alongside marshes and cliffs. There is a nice mix of single and double track making for good racing and passing strateg. The course then travels back along a gentle descent to the finish.
